Generated by All in One SEO Pro v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Kauffman & Billimoria, PLLC Attorneys At Law Serving Indiana County & Western PA ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://k-b-lawyers.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Factors that can negatively influence BAC tests during a DUI stop](https://k-b-lawyers.com/factors-that-can-negatively-influence-bac-tests-during-a-dui-stop/) - The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation reported that police in the state made over 42,000 DUI arrests in 2022. Driving under the influence remains one of the chief concerns for traffic safety officials. When an officer stops a vehicle under suspicion of DUI, they often employ a breath test to gauge the driver's blood alcohol concentration. - [Strategies to protect your family’s business during divorce](https://k-b-lawyers.com/strategies-to-protect-your-familys-business-during-divorce/) - Divorce can be particularly complex when the fate of the family enterprise is a concern. It becomes important to implement strategies that protect the business during the process. Have open and honest communication A good approach begins with an open and honest conversation. Couples should engage in a dialogue about the family business. This communication - [Three reasons to update your beneficiary designations](https://k-b-lawyers.com/three-reasons-to-update-your-beneficiary-designations/) - Signing up for life insurance and a 401(k) can be an important part of your estate plan. These assets allow you to designate someone to receive the proceeds from the account or insurance policy. However, you will likely have to revisit your choice of beneficiary later on. It can be easy to put your accounts - [What are the most dangerous seats in a car?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-are-the-most-dangerous-seats-in-a-car/) - When it comes to road safety, people often focus on seat belt use and defensive driving techniques. However, many people have not considered the impact of where someone sits in a vehicle. The seat a person chooses can significantly affect their chances of injury in an accident. Whether a person is a driver or a - [Physical versus legal custody of minor children](https://k-b-lawyers.com/physical-versus-legal-custody-of-minor-children/) - Family separations have many complications, especially if they involve minor children. Fighting for custody is not an easy battle and has several key considerations. As you prepare for your child custody case, you should understand the difference between legal and physical child custody. Physical custody When you have physical custody, your children live with you - [Will courts send you to jail or rehab?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/will-courts-send-you-to-jail-or-rehab/) - In criminal cases involving drugs and alcohol, the judge's sentence may send the individual in question to rehab rather than jail. While the ultimate decision falls on the judge and depends on the details of the case, there are a few factors that affect the odds of going to rehab instead of jail. Understanding when - [When can the police search a car for drugs?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/when-can-the-police-search-a-car-for-drugs/) - The Pennsylvania Supreme Court issued a ruling that restricts the ability of law enforcement to search a vehicle. While an office is free to search the car when they have a search warrant, there are clear limitations established for searching a car for drugs or other concerns while conducting a traffic stop. Since a vehicle - [4 reasons a will could be challenged in probate court](https://k-b-lawyers.com/4-reasons-a-will-could-be-challenged-in-probate-court/) - Most of the time, the executor passes the deceased's will through probate without conflict or challenges to the will's validity. But will contests do happen sometimes. An heir can claim that they have been shortchanged their "rightful" inheritance or that the will does not reflect the deceased's true final wishes for their estate. To succeed, - [How to know if your ex is hiding assets](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-to-know-if-your-ex-is-hiding-assets/) - Financial disclosures, often called financial affidavits, are common for divorce proceedings. Each party in the divorce may file a financial affidavit detailing their assets, expenses, and income. In an ideal situation, all assets appear on the statements to facilitate adequate division in the settlement. Sometimes, one party conceals assets to try to keep them out - [3 tips for choosing the right executor for your will](https://k-b-lawyers.com/3-tips-for-choosing-ther-right-executor-for-your-will/) - Writing a will is an important step toward completing your estate plan and ensuring that your loved ones will be well cared for in the event of an untimely tragedy. Before your will is complete, however, you must name a trusted individual who will oversee the execution of your will after your death. The executor - [Spinal injury symptoms to watch for after a car accident](https://k-b-lawyers.com/spinal-injury-symptoms-to-watch-for-after-a-car-accident/) - Motor vehicle accidents are one of the most common causes of back and spine injuries. While many car accident injuries are minor and heal with minimal complications, some are more serious, requiring extensive treatment or even lifelong care. Immediately after a car accident, the extent of your injuries might not be apparent. It is important - [How can you update your will?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-can-you-update-your-will/) - Creating a will is one of the essential steps to estate planning. Without it, you leave your assets up to state law. But what if you need to edit your original will? As you get older, your circumstances change, so you will want to account for those changes. Adjusting for important life changes You can - [What causes the most dangerous accidents?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-causes-the-most-dangerous-accidents/) - Motor vehicle accidents are a serious concern for the state of Pennsylvania, both for the impact on citizens of the state and the economic costs to the commonwealth. Although 2020 showed a slight decrease in fatal traffic accidents, the total estimated costs for accidents were over $25.8 billion. Traffic accidents range in severity, which affects - [When can you modify a child custody order?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/when-can-you-modify-a-child-custody-order/) - The Pennsylvania court understands custody arrangements as a temporary agreement subject to change. Children get older, and their needs change. Additionally, parents face life adjustments as well. Any of these may require changes in a custody agreement. Requesting relocation Sometimes the perfect career opportunity requires relocation. However, when you have shared custody of your children - [How a DUI conviction can impact your goals](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-a-dui-conviction-can-impact-your-goals/) - Young people with alcohol DUI convictions in Pennsylvania face severe penalties, including fines, community service and jail time. The state's strict laws focus on deterring drinking and driving among drivers under the age of 24, responsible for more fatal road accidents than those in any other age group. However, these are some ways a DUI - [3 ways roadside breath testing devices go wrong](https://k-b-lawyers.com/3-ways-roadside-breath-testing-devices-go-wrong/) - Under Pennsylvania’s implied consent law, drivers must submit to a breath test when officers request one. Roadside breath testing devices, however, may produce unreliable readings, as an investigation by the New York Times uncovered. Despite breath testing device manufacturers typically marketing their products’ precise readings, no government oversight exists to guarantee their accuracy. If a - [Can you get compensation from a driver with no insurance?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/can-you-get-compensation-from-a-driver-with-no-insurance/) - If you are in a wreck with a driver who does not have automobile insurance, you may wonder about your options for recovering the compensation you deserve. A collision with an uninsured motorist can leave you with expensive medical bills and vehicle repair costs. How does car accident fault affect your compensation? Pennsylvania is a - [How to act during a traffic stop](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-to-act-during-a-traffic-stop/) - The police can pull over drivers that break the law. If you find yourself in a traffic stop, it helps to know what you should and should not do. An officer considers your behavior during a roadside stop. You can maintain your rights and still help your cause. Take a look at a few tips - [When police catch your child with marijuana: Fallout and help](https://k-b-lawyers.com/when-police-catch-your-child-with-marijuana-fallout-and-help/) - Marijuana is a point of contention in the U.S., with many arguing for the legalization of its recreational and medical use. While it is currently legal in Guam, Washington D.C. and 19 states, Pennsylvania is not among this number. Unfortunately, the use of cannabis by college students has only gone up over the years, with - [There is some good news for college students facing drug charges](https://k-b-lawyers.com/there-is-some-good-news-for-college-students-facing-drug-charges/) - If you are a college student, no one has to tell you how expensive pursuing a four-year degree can be. In addition to seeking help from your family, working a job and taking out private loans, you may qualify for government-backed financial aid. This aid may include subsidized loans, grants and work-study program participation. Until - [What exactly happens if you die without a will?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-exactly-happens-if-you-die-without-a-will/) - While you undoubtedly understand the importance of showing up to work, eating healthy meals and taking your medication, other things are easy to put off. Writing a will falls into this category, as it may not seem particularly pressing. In fact, about 54% of Americans say they do not have a will. A will is - [Factors Pennsylvania courts consider when awarding child custody](https://k-b-lawyers.com/factors-pennsylvania-courts-consider-when-awarding-child-custody/) - When your marriage ends in Pennsylvania and you share a child together, or when you had a child with someone outside of marriage, you may need to seek custody rights over your son or daughter. When awarding child custody, the state refers to a specific set of 16 factors. What are some of the areas - [What are the 4 types of divorce in Pennsylvania?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-are-the-4-types-of-divorce-in-pennsylvania/) - If you are thinking about ending your marriage, you are far from alone. In fact, the current divorce rate in the U.S. is 2.7 per 1,000 population. This means about 2,400 couples decided to call it quits every single day. While you may think of divorce as a single process, there are actually four types of - [What are the responsibilities of an executor to a will?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-are-the-responsibilities-of-an-executor-to-a-will/) - When an individual makes a will, he or she chooses an executor, or personal representative, to handle his or her estate after death. While many people choose a trusted family member or friend as executor, it is important to know the role may take a considerable amount of time, effort and organizational skill. From notifying beneficiaries - [A first-time DUI may complicate your child's college budget](https://k-b-lawyers.com/a-first-time-dui-may-complicate-your-childs-college-budget/) - When you attended college, you may not have thought much about tuition and fees. If you are planning to send your son or daughter to school, though, you undoubtedly understand how challenging paying for a college degree can be nowadays. After all, the average cost of tuition and fees at public universities has increased by - [Types of Pennsylvania DUI penalties](https://k-b-lawyers.com/types-of-pennsylvania-dui-penalties/) - Pennsylvania has established three tiers of penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. Your legal consequences depend on your blood alcohol content at the time of arrest and other factors. Review the penalties for Pennsylvania DUI if you face a court date for illegal impairment. General DUI This category applies if your BAC - [5 reasons it may be time to modify your custody order](https://k-b-lawyers.com/5-reasons-it-may-be-time-to-modify-your-custody-order/) - Despite the challenges that come with sharing custody of your child with an ex, most people adjust over time and find a new norm. However, situations arise that make it difficult or unwise to keep going with the same custody order, which means that a change may be necessary. Modifying your custody order can ensure - [What every driver should know about holiday DUI crackdowns](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-every-driver-should-know-about-holiday-dui-crackdowns/) - The way we celebrate the holidays can look quite different this year. However, one thing that remains the same is that police are especially focused on enforcing DUI laws in Pennsylvania this time of year. Knowing what their efforts entail and what rights you have can be crucial if you want to protect yourself from - [Tips for easing your children’s transition between homes](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tips-for-easing-your-childrens-transition-between-homes/) - Even when parents have a particularly contentious divorce, they can usually agree that they want to do what’s best for their children. A split can place a lot of stress on your relationship with your children, especially if you’re co-parenting. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help reduce your children’s feelings of uncertainty. - [What topics might be covered during a child custody hearing?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-topics-might-be-covered-during-a-child-custody-hearing/) - During the end of a marriage, many parents in Pennsylvania and elsewhere may wish to take steps to protect the interests of their kids, but they might not always agree on how to achieve this goal. Parents who cannot come to an agreement concerning a parenting plan may find it necessary to begin preparing for - [What are the different types of child custody in Pennsylvania?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-are-the-different-types-of-child-custody-in-pennsylvania/) - People often refer to custody and visitation matters as battles, as they can pit one parent against the other. One reason why child custody matters can become so contentious is that people often misunderstand the legal process and the laws in place. This unfamiliarity with the system can foster a lot of fear. Thus, having - [Protecting yourself after a 'highway stop-and-frisk'](https://k-b-lawyers.com/protecting-yourself-after-a-highway-stop-and-frisk/) - There are roughly 9 million licensed drivers in Pennsylvania; countless more drivers regularly travel through the state. Of these drivers, according to Pennsylvania State Police, nearly one million were stopped in 2019. Even though traffic stops are not uncommon, many people do not fully understand their rights when the police pull them over. This unfamiliarity - [Court Hearings and Technology](https://k-b-lawyers.com/is-an-electronic-divorce-the-right-option-for-me-2/) - While Pennsylvania courts have reopened since the summer shutdown, many courts are still only operating in-person hearings in emergency circumstances. This can cause issues for Pennsylvania couples looking to start or finalize their divorce. This may not be ideal for them. However, there are alternatives available. In many counties across Pennsylvania, courts are conducting hearings - [Is an electronic divorce the right option for me?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/is-an-electronic-divorce-the-right-option-for-me/) - While Pennsylvania courts have reopened since the summer shutdown, many courts are still only operating in emergency circumstances. This can cause issues for Pennsylvania couples looking to start or finalize their divorce. This may not be ideal for them. However, there are alternatives available. In many states across the country, some courts are now allowing - [What are the penalties for a first-time DUI?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-are-the-penalties-for-a-first-time-dui/) - Many holiday traditions involve gathering with loved ones -- though perhaps on a smaller scale this year -- and having a few drinks. Then, on your way home, you see flashing lights in your rear-view mirror. Before you know it, your blood alcohol registers as .08 and you are facing drunk driving charges. What kind - [Should you consider a prenuptial agreement?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/should-you-consider-a-prenuptial-agreement/) - If you’ll soon be getting married, congratulations on the new chapter of life you’re about to start! But have you considered whether you could benefit from some legal protection before the big day arrives? If you’re like most people, you likely have a visceral reaction to the phrase “prenuptial agreement.” These contracts have earned a - [How does parental conflict affect kids?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-does-parental-conflict-affect-kids/) - Every married couple probably argues once in a while. However, arguments may happen with increased frequency and intensity in the time leading up to, during and just after divorce. This is understandable since divorce can be such an emotional experience. However, when the divorcing spouses are also parents, those arguments can affect more than their - [How do we divide personal property in a divorce?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-do-we-divide-personal-property-in-a-divorce/) - Dividing marital property is commonly one of the most complicated steps in a divorce. And although people often expect high-value assets like a house to be the main source of contention, the fact is that all property can trigger arguments. For instance, consider your personal property. Think about your furniture, clothing, appliances, dishes, jewelry and - [Test anxiety can even impact field sobriety test results](https://k-b-lawyers.com/test-anxiety-can-even-impact-field-sobriety-test-results/) - Field sobriety tests are the physical coordination exams that police subject drivers to when suspected of driving under the influence. You have likely seen them on TV or even experienced them yourself. The three standard tests used in Pennsylvania and elsewhere include: The walk-and-turn: walking heel to toe in a straight line, spinning around and - [Factors that can make a DUI go from bad to worse](https://k-b-lawyers.com/factors-that-can-make-a-dui-go-from-bad-to-worse/) - Drunk driving charges can affect anyone, from a teenager leaving a party to a grandparent struggling with addiction. No matter who you are, the consequences of a DUI conviction can take a tremendous toll financially, emotionally and legally. Addressing these charges immediately and aggressively with legal counsel can help you minimize this toll and protect - [Facing a courtroom trial? It may look different than you expect](https://k-b-lawyers.com/facing-a-courtroom-trial-it-may-look-different-than-you-expect/) - Drug charges can affect anyone, from a group of teenagers accused of selling marijuana to a working mother charged with narcotics possession. And no matter who you are, drug charges and the criminal justice system can be very intimidating and confusing. For instance, if you have been charged with a serious drug offense in Pennsylvania, you - [Books to help you cope with divorce](https://k-b-lawyers.com/books-to-help-you-cope-with-divorce/) - Divorce is a challenging time for everyone involved, during which stress and adversity are all too common. The entire divorce process is full of ups and downs. One day, you may believe you are in a good position and will come away with what you deserve to best serve you and your children's best interests. - [Parents: What to know about Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition](https://k-b-lawyers.com/parents-what-to-know-about-accelerated-rehabilitative-disposition/) - No parent wants to get that call informing them that their child is facing criminal charges. Parents can be angry, humiliated and terrified about what happens next. All these emotions are understandable. But it is important not to lose sight of the fact that a juvenile mistake does not have to have lifelong consequences. As - [How reliable are breathalyzer tests?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-reliable-are-breathalyzer-tests/) - You see flashing lights in your rearview mirror, and your stomach drops. You’ve had a few drinks, but you believe you’re within the legal limit to drive. The police think otherwise and place you under arrest for suspicion of drunk driving. At the station, you agree to submit to a breathalyzer test. The breathalyzer machine - [How you can support your child’s well-being during divorce](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-you-can-support-your-childs-well-being-during-divorce/) - Checking on your little ones is probably a natural habit for you. But winging it shouldn’t be your approach to prioritizing your children in the mix of all the logistics of the divorce process. Instead, you should consider all the ways you can make your child feel safe during a time of change. You can - [Mediation is a gentler way to divorce](https://k-b-lawyers.com/mediation-is-a-gentler-way-to-divorce/) - Couples do not marry with the intention of divorcing. Like you, most expect to live happily or at least contentedly ever after. They make plans, buy property and have children, all with the goal of sharing their futures together. Then life happens, disappointment sets in and trust erodes. If this sounds like your situation, the - [3 tips for parenting after a divorce](https://k-b-lawyers.com/3-tips-for-parenting-after-a-divorce/) - Sharing custody of your children after a breakup or divorce is difficult under any circumstance. The current environment has presented even more challenges for parents in these situations, but there are also consistent recommendations that can make your and your child's life easier. Here are some tips for every divorced parent to keep in mind: - [Tips to consider if your custody exchanges are a battle](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tips-to-consider-if-your-custody-exchanges-are-a-battle/) - After a divorce, parties are often happy to go their separate ways. However, parents who share custody may not go very far: Continuing to raise a child together means that exes will be in each other's lives for the foreseeable future. Any interactions have the potential to be contentious though. For instance, custody exchanges could - [Resolving clashes over decisions for your child](https://k-b-lawyers.com/resolving-clashes-over-decisions-for-your-child/) - Parents with child custody or visitation plans can find themselves navigating some complicated situations that other parents may not struggle with. For instance, parents who share custody can clash over decisions for their children. Figuring out how to resolve these disputes can be a challenge. Often, the biggest dispute between divorced parents is what's truly - [Equal vs. equitable: Why the distinction matters in estate plans](https://k-b-lawyers.com/equal-vs-equitable-why-the-distinction-matters-in-estate-plans/) - Inheritances are among the most commonly disputed elements of an estate plan. If you are a parent, you can make decisions that minimize the chances of fighting among your children. One way to do this is to be mindful of whether you leave equal or equitable gifts to your kids in a will. Equal or - [How can I survive as a small business?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-can-i-survive-as-a-small-business/) - In recent memory, the world has not seen anything quite like the COVID-19 pandemic. While many of us have lived through economic recessions and serious viral outbreaks, a widespread government-enforced shutdown of non-essential businesses was a new territory for business owners and consumers alike. Many small businesses took huge hits during this time or had - [Filing for divorce after discovering infidelity](https://k-b-lawyers.com/filing-for-divorce-after-discovering-infidelity/) - Despite Indiana County moving toward normalcy, the stay-at-home orders have created difficulties for some couples. For example, many married couples are struggling with quarantine requirements as the close quarters have made it easier for marital issues to boil over and trigger or reignite decisions to divorce. One issue couples are facing is infidelity. As this - [Thinking about estate planning? How to get started](https://k-b-lawyers.com/thinking-about-estate-planning-how-to-get-started/) - We are living in uncertain times, and with that can come feelings of fear and loss of control. Although we cannot predict the future, we can make a plan to help us navigate it under various circumstances and cope with these feelings. Creating an estate plan is one way to accomplish this. If you are - [How does job loss affect child support and alimony payments?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-does-job-loss-affect-child-support-and-alimony-payments/) - Child support and alimony are parts of a divorce decree that provide necessary income to those who need it after a divorce. A court decides the conditions of an order based on the circumstances that were present during the divorce. However, when life changes and you suddenly lose your job, how can that impact your - [What are my employment rights during COVID?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-are-my-employment-rights-during-covid/) - With the COVID-19 pandemic in full effect, it’s important for workers to know exactly what their options are. Unemployment is on the rise and essential workers are at high risk for contracting COVID-19. Here is some important information for you about your employment rights during this time: Sickness in the family The Families First Coronavirus - [Is marriage the right option for you after a trying time?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/is-marriage-the-right-option-for-you-after-a-trying-time/) - While sometimes a marriage dissolves over one event, other times it is a slow wearing down of the relationship that leads to one or both spouses contemplating divorce. Tension can run especially high during difficult times, especially when you and your spouse are confined to the house and facing new stressors in your lives. Filing - [Child custody matters come to forefront during uncertain times](https://k-b-lawyers.com/child-custody-matters-come-to-forefront-during-uncertain-times/) - In these uncertain times in which social distancing and self-quarantining are the norms, parents who are divorced or separated face additional challenges. How do you successfully co-parent when your child’s health may be at stake? Many complexities have surfaced as judges struggle with this uncharted legal territory. Anxiety-ridden parents have concerns that the other parent - [Your rights after an arrest](https://k-b-lawyers.com/your-rights-after-an-arrest/) - One sentence you can expect to hear in a TV show or movie featuring police is, “You have the right to remain silent.” You may even hear a character refer to this as “Miranda rights,” although you may be uncertain what that means. Far from being a catch phrase for Hollywood, the Miranda rights a - [A divorce financial planner can help you prepare](https://k-b-lawyers.com/a-divorce-financial-planner-can-help-you-prepare/) - When you are going through a divorce in Pennsylvania, you are going through many life changes. It is difficult to plan financially for the future given the pace of your divorce and the number of issues you could experience along the way. A divorce financial planner can help you consider a range of different financial - [What rights do unmarried fathers have in Pennsylvania?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-rights-do-unmarried-fathers-have-in-pennsylvania/) - When a child is born to unmarried parents, the biological father does not initially have rights. If the father wishes to be in the child’s life or the mother wants to receive child support, paternity must be established. A father who chooses to be in his child’s life must prove paternity in one of the - [How can a minor affect your college career?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-can-a-minor-affect-your-college-career/) - When you first go to college, you get to experience a whole new freedom in your social life. You will decide how late to stay up, who to hang out with, where to go and what you will do. Like many students, you may choose to include alcohol in your activities. However, if you are - [How can I co-parent with a difficult ex?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-can-i-co-parent-with-a-difficult-ex/) - While most people in Pennsylvania understand that co-parenting is the most positive approach to take with children after a divorce, it is also well understood that working with a difficult ex can be quite a challenge. If you are in the position of working with a difficult ex in a co-parenting situation, it is still - [Child custody in Pennsylvania](https://k-b-lawyers.com/child-custody-in-pennsylvania/) - Probably the most emotionally charged element in any separation proceeding is the discussion of custody of the children. The Pennsylvania family courts are often left with the difficult task of determining the best custodial arrangement for the children. With this in mind, the more parents understand what is involved in child custody determination, the more - [How can you keep your child's college dream alive during divorce?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-can-you-keep-your-childs-college-dream-alive-during-divorce/) - Whether your children are younger or are nearing college enrollment, your decision to divorce your spouse in Pennsylvania could significantly impact your financial plan for helping your child pay for his or her education. The sooner you begin establishing an alternative plan for funding your child's college experience, the more effective you may be at - [How a DUI can affect your career prospects](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-a-dui-can-affect-your-career-prospects/) - Most people’s career paths come with a few speed bumps. In some cases, that speed bump could be a DUI conviction. If it was a one-time mistake, the charge might only provide minor setbacks. While a DUI charge can stay on someone’s record for many years, that doesn't mean it will negatively impact everyone’s job - [Are field sobriety tests always accurate?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/are-field-sobriety-tests-always-accurate/) - Most people have probably seen a field sobriety test on shows, but many of these TV stereotypes are not depicted realistically. Typically, field sobriety tests get administered when an officer is trying to establish probable cause for an arrest. When doing these tests, there are generally three stages: Stage 1: The officer holds an object in - [How will a drug conviction impact my education?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-will-a-drug-conviction-impact-my-education/) - College is an exciting time. You have a lot of opportunities to meet new people and go to parties. You also have to make a lot of decisions on your own. Perhaps one of those decisions was experimenting with drugs, and now, you are facing a drug charge. You’re probably wondering how a conviction will - [The hidden costs of a DUI](https://k-b-lawyers.com/the-hidden-costs-of-a-dui/) - In addition to significant recognized costs, there are many hidden costs that come with a DUI. During just one holiday weekend in Pennsylvania in 2018, the number of DUI arrests rose 10% from the past year, as stated in a report done by the PA State Police. Many Pennsylvania drivers who receive a DUI find that they - [Can you move away from Pennsylvania with your kids?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/can-you-move-away-from-pennsylvania-with-your-kids/) - Part of moving on with your life after a divorce may be moving to a new area. If, however, you wish to take your kids with you when you relocate, that may present some problems. Your move will almost certainly impact your ex-spouse’s custody or visitation rights. You need to follow the proper procedures when - [What estate planning moves do you need to make in divorce?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-estate-planning-moves-do-you-need-to-make-in-divorce/) - There is nothing easy about divorce, but if you already have an estate plan in place, you may find that your divorce is more complicated than others. In addition to trying to meet your legal obligations as a divorcee, you also need to exercise as much control over your assets as possible, which you can - [What is PA’s stance on medication-assisted treatments in prison?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-is-pas-stance-on-medication-assisted-treatments-in-prison/) - Medication-assisted treatment is one of the most effective and safest ways to help a drug addict detox from harmful substances. Despite that fact, most prisons fail to offer it. Pennsylvania used to be one of them, but as of June 1, it has joined the innovative systems that allow this approach for inmates. According to - [What is constructive possession?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-is-constructive-possession/) - Imagine you go to your friend’s place. You open the door, and a dog races up to sniff at your leg. As it wags its tail, you may wonder: When did your friend get a dog? You ask, and your friend says it’s not his. He’s just dog-sitting. You assumed that because the dog was - [What happens if I refuse a BAC chemical test?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-happens-if-i-refuse-a-bac-chemical-test/) - Every year in Pennsylvania, thousands of people face impaired driving accusations. In 2018 alone, law enforcement in the state made more than 52,000 such arrests (a drop from the 54,000 the year prior.) It’s very likely that most of these arrests, if not all of them, included a chemical test to measure the individual’s blood - [The financial and emotional effects of child support payments](https://k-b-lawyers.com/the-financial-and-emotional-affects-of-child-support-payments/) - For any couple, the divorce process is challenging. However, the emotional turmoil when a married couple with kids calls off their relationship off is overwhelming, especially if they do not carefully consider the family law issues that involve the kids. Aside from custody rights, child support is a major concern, not only from a financial - [What happens if I am arrested on a marijuana charge?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-happens-if-i-am-arrested-on-a-marijuana-charge/) - Under Pennsylvania law, marijuana is a schedule I drug. This means that Pennsylvania considers marijuana to be an addictive substance with no known medicinal properties. While many Americans may disagree with Pennsylvania’s code, this is what the law states. After a marijuana arrest, you may wonder what this means as far as penalties are concerned. - [Do you know about diversion programs for juvenile offenders?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/do-you-know-about-diversion-programs-for-juvenile-offenders/) - Despite your best efforts to raise your daughter or son with a thorough understanding of right and wrong, your child could end up in trouble with Pennsylvania law enforcement. Your child made a mistake and does not need firsthand experience of the justice system. Youth.gov takes an in-depth look at diversion programs. They could be - [Breaking down divorce’s financial issues](https://k-b-lawyers.com/breaking-down-divorces-financial-issues/) - There is undoubtedly a lot to take care of and think about in a divorce. While you likely keep your financial health in the forefront of your mind, you may not have a full picture of how to set yourself up for financial success for life after divorce. Forbes offers a few financial points to - [Is joint custody really a good idea?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/is-joint-custody-really-a-good-idea/) - You may have heard that joint custody of children by their divorced parents has become the preferred custody arrangement in virtually all states. But now that you face your own divorce, you undoubtedly want to know whether joint custody represents the best option for your children. As an overall proposition, children who grow up with - [Can posting about your divorce on social media prove detrimental?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/can-posting-about-your-divorce-on-social-media-prove-detrimental/) - Social media sites seem here to stay with more and more ways to connect with people across the miles cropping up every year. Pennsylvania residents continue to enjoy how easy these sites and apps make staying in touch with friends and family. If you tend to share personal details of your life on social media, - [What happens to your house after the divorce?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-happens-to-your-house-after-the-divorce/) - Pennsylvania couples who choose to divorce are faced with several unique situations when it comes to dealing with the mortgage and marital home. A potential divorce can seriously affect both spouse’s finances and how to handle the home depends a lot on how the property was titled and financed. There are several options if you - [How are assets split during Pennsylvania divorces?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-are-assets-split-during-pennsylvania-divorces/) - Like others in Pennsylvania and elsewhere who get married, you and your spouse comingled your lives during your union, including your possessions and finances. Now that you have decided to get divorced, you must separate your shared property. This is the most contentious aspect of the process for many, which is why it is important - [American teens: Sleep-impaired behind the wheel](https://k-b-lawyers.com/american-teens-sleep-impaired-behind-the-wheel/) - Would you write a check on an overdrawn account? Would you try to board an airline without a ticket? What about this one: Would you allow your teenager to drink three beers before driving to school each morning? Trick question: You say "no," but your teenager's sleep-deprived eyes say "yes." Teen drivers face a serious - [What are the penalties for possession of marijuana in PA?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-are-the-penalties-for-possession-of-marijuana-in-pa/) - State marijuana laws these days seem to be ever-changing, with more and more states either decriminalizing it or, at the very least, legalizing it for medicinal purposes. Pennsylvania is just one of many states that has reviewed several bills proposing to amend state marijuana laws in recent years, so where does it stand now? Is - [Tom Petty’s daughters sue over administration of his music trust](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tom-pettys-daughters-sue-over-administration-of-his-music-trust/) - When Tom Petty died in 2017, he left behind a trust containing his music catalog. His widow was named trustee. However, the terms of the trust said that Petty’s two daughters were to have “equal participation” in decisions about how his music would be used after his death. Petty’s daughters interpret the term “equal participation” - [Can you help your children through separation anxiety?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/can-you-help-your-children-through-separation-anxiety/) - When you make the decision to divorce your spouse in Pennsylvania, one of your first concerns may be how this decision will affect your children. After all, despite the significant changes in your relationship, your soon-to-be-ex is still your children’s other parent. One of the first tasks you may undertake is negotiating a child custody - [Know your rights in a Pennsylvania DUI stop](https://k-b-lawyers.com/know-your-rights-in-a-pennsylvania-dui-stop/) - For many people, a DUI stop is the first time they have a serious encounter with the police. It's normal to be nervous but remember: you have rights. From "implied consent" to how to handle DUI stops, you've probably heard conflicting advice from a lot of different people. Below, we discuss common questions Pennsylvania residents - [What should I know about child custody in Pennsylvania?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-should-i-know-about-child-custody-in-pennsylvania/) - Deciding child custody can be tough for Pennsylvania parents. The court process may seem intimidating, especially if you are applying for sole custody. Having the right information is crucial in this case, and Live About explains some of the more important custody considerations to be aware of when getting divorced in this state. Parents have - [The signs of whiplash after a car accident](https://k-b-lawyers.com/the-signs-of-whiplash-after-a-car-accident/) - Whiplash is one of the most common injuries people experience after a car accident. It can occur to the driver and passengers alike, and approximately 2 million people in the United States experience whiplash each year, shares Live Science. Whiplash refers to damage to the neck tissue and joints. In some cases, the intervertebral joints, - [What should I do if I’m involved in a hit and run?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-should-i-do-if-im-involved-in-a-hit-and-run/) - Pennsylvania drivers must make safety a priority any time they’re on the road. This entails knowing how to respond to a hit and run accident, which can be confusing and traumatizing for victims. To ensure you have the right information, State Farm offers the following advice. Contact the police immediately after the hit and run, - [How can I make my co-parenting arrangement work?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-can-i-make-my-co-parenting-arrangement-work/) - Parenting is rarely easy, but when you must make important child-rearing decisions with your ex-spouse it can seem downright impossible. There are steps you can take to facilitate a smoother co-parenting relationship between you and your former partner, which benefits the whole family. Accordingly, Parents Magazine offers the following advice. Choose your battles carefully Divorce - [What should teens know about defensive driving?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/what-should-teens-know-about-defensive-driving/) - If you have a teenaged driver in Pennsylvania, chances are you’re concerned for your child’s safety. Not all drivers abide by the rules of the road, and negligent behavior behind the wheel endangers everyone. While you can’t control the actions of others, these tips from KidsHealth.org can help your teen utilize defensive driving techniques. Pay - [How can I avoid estate planning mistakes?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/how-can-i-avoid-estate-planning-mistakes/) - No matter your age or the number of assets in your possession, creating an estate plan is a must. You should also take the proper steps to create a legally binding and enforceable plan, or your estate may end up in probate court. To sidestep this often time-consuming and costly process, U.S. News & World - [Creating an estate plan? Use this checklist](https://k-b-lawyers.com/creating-an-estate-plan-use-this-checklist/) - January is over, but you still have time to take care of one major resolution for the new year: creating an estate plan. Nobody likes to think about the end of their life, especially after a rousing holiday season of fun, family and cheer. But an estate plan is crucial for every adult, especially if - [When will marijuana be legalized in Pennsylvania?](https://k-b-lawyers.com/when-will-marijuana-be-legalized-in-pennsylvania/) - Although many states have legalized marijuana, Pennsylvania has yet to pass any laws regarding recreational marijuana. Medical marijuana has been legal here since 2016, but possessing any amount for other uses is still grounds for fines and a jail sentence. However, Governor Tom Wolf and Lt. Governor John Fetterman have recently been considering legalization. Pennsylvanians - [DUIs During the Holidays](https://k-b-lawyers.com/duis-during-the-holidays/) - It’s that fun time of year when many of us celebrate with family, friends, and coworkers. Unfortunately as attorneys who handle criminal defense and personal injury law, we see first-hand some of the negative consequences that come when someone celebrates a little too much and then exercises poor and regrettable judgment by getting behind the - [Holiday Custody Agreements – The Gifts That Keep On Giving](https://k-b-lawyers.com/holiday-custody-agreements-the-gifts-that-keep-on-giving/) - “We don’t need anything in writing.” “We can figure it out.” Which inevitably leads to, “he/she never let me see the kids when we agreed I could.” Those are the most frequent phrases I hear when clients come in, sometimes years after splitting up with their ex. People think it will be easy to make informal, - [Medical Errors No. 3 Cause of Death in U.S. Bungled care costs 250,000 lives a year](https://k-b-lawyers.com/medical-errors-no-3-cause-of-death-in-u-s-bungled-care-costs-250000-lives-a-year/) - Is our health care system trying to kill us? It certainly seems that way in light of a new report that finds that more than 250,000 deaths each year can be attributed to deadly medical mistakes. To put that in perspective, only heart disease and cancer kill more Americans than medical errors in hospitals and ## Pages - [Home](https://k-b-lawyers.com/) - Kauffman & Billimoria, PLLC is an Indiana County, Pennsylvania firm that helps clients with personal injury, family law, criminal law and more. - [About Our Practice](https://k-b-lawyers.com/about/) - You can contact our office now at 724-471-6770 or send us an email at info@k-b-lawyers.com to get started today. - [Zubin F. Billimoria](https://k-b-lawyers.com/about/zubin-f-billimoria/) - Thomas A. Kauffman (724) 357-9990 zfb@k-b-lawyers.com Attorney Zubin F. billimoria Attorney Zubin F. Billimoria (724) 357-9990 zfb@k-b-lawyers.com BIOGRAPHY Zubin Billimoria began practicing law in his hometown of London, England. 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Contact A Skilled Lawyer Now Pennsylvania Law Blog Factors that can negatively influence BAC tests during a DUI stop November 3, 2023 Criminal Defense The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation reported that police in the state made over 42,000 DUI arrests in ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://k-b-lawyers.com/category/uncategorized/) - [Criminal Defense](https://k-b-lawyers.com/category/criminal-defense/) - [Personal Injury](https://k-b-lawyers.com/category/personal-injury/) - [Family Law](https://k-b-lawyers.com/category/family-law/) - [Estate Planning](https://k-b-lawyers.com/category/estate-planning/) - [Probate](https://k-b-lawyers.com/category/probate/) - [Business Law](https://k-b-lawyers.com/category/business-law/) ## Tags - [charges](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/charges/) - [criminal](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/criminal/) - [drugs](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/drugs/) - [DUI](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/dui/) - [marijuana](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/marijuana/) - [weed](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/weed/) - [estate planning](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/estate-planning/) - [agreement](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/agreement/) - [children](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/children/) - [court](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/court/) - [custody](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/custody/) - [custody agreement](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/custody-agreement/) - [dad](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/dad/) - [divorce](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/divorce/) - [family](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/family/) - [family law](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/family-law/) - [holidays](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/holidays/) - [kids](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/kids/) - [mom](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/mom/) - [parents](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/parents/) - [power of attorney](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/power-of-attorney/) - [wills](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/wills/) - [probate](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/probate/) - [trusts](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/trusts/) - [DUI and jobs](https://k-b-lawyers.com/tag/dui-and-jobs/)